Procurement Commodity Manager - Dairy

Job Description: Develop and implement sourcing strategies for dairy commodities including milk, cream, butter, cheese, whey, milk powders, and other dairy-based ingredients. Manage procurement activities for additional commodity categories such as sweeteners, grains, oils, packaging materials, and ingredients as assigned. Monitor commodity markets, industry trends, supply-demand dynamics, weather impacts, and economic indicators affecting commodity pricing. Lead contract negotiations, pricing agreements, and supplier performance management programs. Identify and execute cost savings, value engineering, and supplier consolidation opportunities. Develop risk mitigation strategies related to commodity price volatility, supply disruptions, and market fluctuations. Collaborate with Finance and leadership teams to support budgeting, forecasting, and commodity cost planning activities. Analyze market data and provide recommendations regarding purchasing timing, forward buying opportunities, and inventory strategies. Build and maintain strong relationships with suppliers, industry associations, and market intelligence providers. Partner with Quality Assurance and R&D teams to ensure supplier compliance with food safety, quality, and regulatory requirements. Support new product development initiatives through supplier identification, ingredient sourcing, and cost modeling. Lead supplier business reviews and establish key performance indicators for quality, delivery, service, and cost. Ensure compliance with company procurement policies, food safety standards, and regulatory requirements. Develop and present commodity market updates and sourcing recommendations to senior leadership. MPI does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, marital status, or based on an individual's status in any group or class protected by applicable federal, state or local law. MPI encourages applications from minorities, women, the disabled, protected veterans and all other qualified applicants. The Successful Applicant Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain Management, Business, Finance, Agriculture, Food Science, or a related field. 5+ years of procurement, sourcing, commodity management, or category management experience within food, beverage, agriculture, or consumer products industries. Experience purchasing dairy commodities and managing supplier negotiations. Strong understanding of commodity markets, pricing mechanisms, and risk management practices. Experience managing contracts, supplier performance, and strategic sourcing initiatives. Advanced analytical and financial modeling skills. Proficiency with ERP systems, procurement tools, and Microsoft Excel. Strong communication, negotiation, and relationship management skills. What's on Offer Competitive salary ranging from $120,000 to $140,000 annually. Bonus opportunity Generous PTO Full comprehensive benefits package Generous 401k Hybrid work model 2 days WFH, 3 days in office Job Summary Sector Procurement & Supply Chain Sub Sector Direct Procurement Industry FMCG (Fast Moving Consumer Goods) Where Chicago Contract Type Permanent Consultant Name Clayton Hamilton Job Reference JN-082026-7084146 Job Nature Hybrid working